Association of Container Transporters holds AGM to elect new team

Monday, 10 December 2018 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Seated (from left): Thusitha Jeewendra, Roshan Manikwadyge, Nimal Amerasekara (Immediate Past President), Upalu Ginawardena (President), Channaka De Alwis, Lakshman Seneviratne, Dinesh Edirisooriya

Standing (from left): E.A. Pathmasiri, H.D.R. Shantha, W.G.N. Kumara, Dimuth Silva, Shaminda Kumara, Dinuka De Saram Not in photograph: Chinthaka Athapaththu

The Association of Container Transporters, the leading trade body representing truck owners who serve the national economy held its 33rd Annual General Meeting recently at Pegasus Reef Hotel.

Sri Lanka Customs Director General P.S.M. Charles graced the occasion as Chief Guest along with the then SLPA Managing Director H.D.A.S. Premachandra as Guest of Honour, distinguished invitees representing trade and regulatory bodies, and members.

ACT President Upali Gunawardena

Upali Gunawardena was elected President for 2018/2019 uncontested along with 13 committee members representing the entire spectrum of Members. Roshan Manik Waduge and Channaka De Alwis were elected as Vice Presidents with Lakshman Seneviratne as Secretary and Thuisth Jeewandara as Treasurer for 2018/2019.

Charles addressing the gathering emphasised the importance of standardisation and implementation of proper systems to cater to the demands of all stakeholders.

Premachandra highlighted many of the infrastructure and capacity building initiatives undertaken by Sri Lanka Ports Authority and pledged SLPA’s commitment to deliver a superior service. He also emphasised on the continued support to ACT. Nimal Ameresekara, the outgoing President thanked the former Committee and the membership for extending their support during his tenure and extended his best wishes to the new President and Committee.

Upali Gunawardena, the President highlighted some of the many problems faced by the industry at the current moment. He also pointed out the importance of the industry to prepare itself to face new challenges as per global trends and adopt sustainable practices for the betterment of all. Reiterating the importance of workforce efficiency improvements, he drew attention of the authorities to ease work pressure through adopting modern technologies to meet future demands.